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Medial collateral ligament

The medial collateral ligament (MCL), one of four knee ligaments, connects the thighbone (femur) to the lower leg bone (tibia) along the inside of the knee joint. It stabilizes the knee joint and stops the knee from bending sideways.

MCL injuries often occur during twisting, bending, or quick changes of direction, such as might happen if a knee is hit from the side while it is locked in position.

Minor injuries are treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Knee movement may also be restricted for a period of time with a knee immobilizer. Severe MCL tears may require surgery.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Revised October 6, 2009

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: October 06, 2009
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